One Drop Foundation was the recipient of a $40,000 grant through the Sleeman Better Water Fund 2026 which is administered through The Guelph Community Foundation. Since receiving the funds in February, One Drop and its partners have already reached a major milestone in the development of the Six Nations Mobile Water Lab! The Mobile Lab project is a collaborative community project taking place at Six Nations of the Grand River. It is focused on improving local long-term water security, strengthening Indigenous water governance, and empowering local ingenious youth.
The project was created in response to a significant challenge within Six Nations of the Grand River. Fewer than 30% of households there are connected to treated, piped water. Many families rely on private wells and cisterns and have limited access to comprehensive water testing. The Mobile Water Lab offers an innovative, community-led response to this issue. The Lab brings water testing, education, and community engagement directly to residents.
Funding specifically supported the purchase of scientific testing equipment and educational materials. These resources enable bacteriological, chemical, and radiological testing of the water. Attaining these resources early allowed the project team to begin activities sooner than expected. Rather than waiting for the Mobile Lab vehicle itself to be completed, the equipment was able to be brought and used during the 2026 Six Nations Summer Institute event. During this event Indigenous students participated in hands-on water quality monitoring and environmental stewardship training. This early start allowed for training and community relationship building to begin immediately. By being able to have hands on experience testing the water, this helped future operators gain practical experience in these early stages and be prepared for when the Lab is fully operational.
This initiative has strengthened collaboration among Six Nations Polytechnic, Six Nations Health Services, Six Nations Environmental Services, McMaster University, as well as local elders, educators, technicians, and community representatives. Together, these partners are building a shared community resource and addressing a systemic problem through Indigenous-led water governance. The project will share the testing results through a community-managed dashboard. The project has already gained national recognition, and neighbouring First Nations and partner organizations have also expressed interest in accessing the Lab or adapting the model within their own communities.
Founded in 2007 by Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberté, One Drop Foundation is a Québec charity working to ensure sustainable access to safe water for vulnerable communities. Through community-led partnerships, education and innovation, the organization helps communities create long-term solutions to water challenges while strengthening local leadership and resilience. One Drop’s vision is a sustainable future with safe water for all.